A CANCER charity is campaigning to get sunbeds out of gyms in Merseyside.

The North West Cancer Research Fund (NWCRF) wants all health clubs and spas to get rid of their sunbeds to lower rates of skin cancer.

The number of people being treated for melanoma – the most dangerous form of skin cancer – in Merseyside rose by 66% between 2002 and 2008, while in Liverpool, the figure rose by 94%.

That compares with a national increase of 46%.

Doctors partly blame the high usage of sunbeds in the region for the rise.

One Chester gym has already made the step to ban sunbeds and charity bosses hope others will soon follow suit.

Chief Executive of NWCRF, Anne Jackson, said: “We are challenging gyms and spas to remember they are in the health business and offering the use of sunbeds is a complete contradiction in terms.

“The Club and Spa, at Hoole Hall, in Chester, is a great example of how commercial operations can take a stand against skin cancer and remain true to their mission as providers of health and fitness facilities by banning sunbeds across the board.

“We are encouraging gyms and spas across the North West to sign up to our campaign and join the battle against skin cancer."

North West Cancer Research Fund (NWCRF) raises money to fund research into the causes of cancer and how it spreads. It supports three research facilities across the region, including the University of Liverpool.